Mexico s Monarch Butterflies and Magical Cities (Wed, Feb 3 Sun, Feb 7, 2016)

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Stanley Holt
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Mexico s Monarch Butterflies and Magical Cities (Wed, Feb 3 Sun, Feb 7, 2016) Every winter, the cloud forests in the mountains of central Mexico play host to millions and millions of over-wintering

2 Mexico s Monarch Butterflies and Magical Cities (Wed, Feb 3 Sun, Feb 7, 2016) Every winter, the cloud forests in the mountains of central Mexico play host to millions and millions of over-wintering monarch butterflies. This aggregation of monarchs in Mexico s central highlands remains one of the most impressive wildlife spectacles on the planet. When masses of butterflies are in flight, it sounds like rain falling and their cumulative weight can bend branches of oyamel firs. In addition to visiting two butterfly sanctuaries in the state of Mexico, travelers will also visit vibrant Mexico City and colonial Valle de Bravo, one of Mexico s Magical Towns. Itinerary Day 1 (Wed, Feb 3) Mexico City Upon arrival to Mexico City, you'll be met for the transfer to your hotel. Overnight at Camino Real Airport or similar. ( (D) Day 2 (Thurs, Feb 4) Mexico City/ Piedra Herrada Monarch Sanctuary/ Valle de Bravo After breakfast at the hotel, depart to Piedra Herrada Monarch Reserve, the easiest monarch sanctuary to access from Mexico City. Often, visitors to Piedra Herrada encounter swarms of monarchs before even arriving to the sanctuary. Hike uphill to the heart of the sanctuary to witness massive aggregations of monarchs. Standing in the

forests of the reserve as millions of orange and black monarch butterflies swarm overhead is a magical sight and today, you'll

Continue on to nearby Valle de Bravo, one of Mexico s Pueblos Magico ( Magical Towns ) located less than 30 minutes from the sanctuary.

Its narrow, cobblestoned streets and colonial-style buildings along the shores of Laguna de Avandaro are perfect for exploring and

sanctuary in Mexico State. El Capulin receives far less visitors than Piedra Herrada and offers a much wilder feel.

3 forests of the reserve as millions of orange and black monarch butterflies swarm overhead is a magical sight and today, you'll experience it first-hand. To make the most of your visit, you ll also get to enjoy a picnic lunch at the sanctuary. Continue on to nearby Valle de Bravo, one of Mexico s Pueblos Magico ( Magical Towns ) located less than 30 minutes from the sanctuary. You ll have time this afternoon to explore Valle on your own. Its narrow, cobblestoned streets and colonial-style buildings along the shores of Laguna de Avandaro are perfect for exploring and your hotel for the next two nights is conveniently located just a few blocks from the main plaza. Overnight at Meson de Leyendas. ( (B,L,D) Day 3 (Fri, Feb 5) Valle de Bravo/ El Capulin Monarch Sanctuary Today brings a visit to El Capulin, a second monarch sanctuary in Mexico State. El Capulin receives far less visitors than Piedra Herrada and offers a much wilder feel. The trails here are more rugged so the group will travel by horseback to the butterfly congregation sites. After time to fully enjoy the spectacle of butterflies and lunch at a typical fondita, head back to Valle de Bravo. Dinner this evening will be at the best Italian restaurant in town, a gastronomic icon for the last 30 years. Overnight at Meson de Leyendas. (B,L,D)

Day 4 (Sat, Feb 6) Valle de Bravo/ Mexico City Morning return to Mexico City.

Blending colonial 17 th Century grandeur with a raw industrial edge, Downtown Hotel integrates local indigenous culture while celebrating its prime location.

Stops include the Cathedral (the largest on the continent), Mayor Temple Museum (where you can clearly see the remains of the Aztec civilization upon which the Spaniards

4 Day 4 (Sat, Feb 6) Valle de Bravo/ Mexico City Morning return to Mexico City. Your hotel this evening is located only a block away from Mexico City s iconic Zocalo and Historic Center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Blending colonial 17 th Century grandeur with a raw industrial edge, Downtown Hotel integrates local indigenous culture while celebrating its prime location. You ll have the opportunity to take advantage of this incredible location during a guided city tour to the most important buildings and landmarks in the area. Stops include the Cathedral (the largest on the continent), Mayor Temple Museum (where you can clearly see the remains of the Aztec civilization upon which the Spaniards built the city in the 16 th century), and the National Palace to see Diego Rivera s impressive mural paintings. Tonight s dinner is on your own, but we strongly recommend eating at Azul Restaurant located at your hotel, one of Mexico City s most famous restaurants. Overnight at Downtown Hotel. ( (B,L)

5 Day 5 (Sun, Feb 7) Mexico City/ Departure Today s activities will depend on your flight time. If your departure time is in the afternoon or evening, a visit to La Ciudadela Artisans Market is possible. Transfer to the airport in time for your flight home. (B) Meals: B=Breakfast; L=Lunch; D=Dinner Price: $1669* per person (double occupancy); $475* single supplement. Pricing includes accommodations, private transfers and tours, full-time local bilingual guide, trip host, entrance fees as listed, and noted meals. A donation to support Audubon Society of Greater Denver will be made on behalf of all participants. Exclusions: international airfare, alcohol, passport/visa fees, checked baggage fees, travel insurance, optional activities, taxis, gratuities for local guide, and personal expenses. * A 3% discount will be applied for payment by check.

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